Garner Senior Center Recertified as Center of Excellence for 2024-2029

The Garner Senior Center recently was recertified as a Center of Excellence through 2029 by the State of North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services.  

The designation was the result of a five-year process that involved documenting achievement in five different operational areas: outreach and access to services; programs and activities; planning, evaluation and input from older adults; staffing; and operations.  

Certification is a voluntary process that senior centers can use to be recognized in their communities and across the state. The purpose of the certification process is to strengthen the capacity of senior centers by providing a set of measurable indicators of best practices. Centers of Excellence have proven they provide exemplary services and opportunities to their communities and serve as mentors and models to developing centers.  

“This certification means a lot to all of us. It acknowledges the outstanding efforts of our volunteers, partners, participants and staff,” Senior Center Director Torrey Blackmar said.   

The Center of Excellence designation means additional funds for the Garner Senior Center. GSC receives three additional shares of State General Purpose Funding each year. In past years, these funds have helped purchase A/V equipment, furniture, appliances and fitness equipment.  

The Garner Senior Center is owned and operated by the Town of Garner Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Department and works in cooperation with Resources for Seniors and Meals on Wheels to offer a full-service facility to adults 55 and older. Most basic services are free of charge and available to residents of Garner and the surrounding area.   

Since it first opened in 1991, the Garner Senior Center has provided a variety of physical, social, leisure and educational opportunities for older adults. Now boasting 2,000 registered participants and offering over 150 classes and programs each month, the Garner Senior Center is another example of why Garner is a Great Place to Be. 


Garner Senior Center Director Torrey Blackmar (center) and Senior Center Recreation Program Assistants Mandy Parker (left) and Erica Arrington (right) pose outside the center with the Center of Excellence certificate for 2024-2029.